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Diabetes Safeguard (Diase)

DIASE adopts a holistic approach in the care and support of patients. The center offers a wide range of services for people living with diabetes, those at risk of developing the disease, and relatives of diabetic patients. Services include individual consultations with healthcare professionals, foot care, educational workshops, self-management sessions, and group physical activity sessions—particularly for pregnant women with gestational diabetes.
The NGO runs several educational programs, platforms, and sessions designed to empower diabetic patients to understand the risks associated with their condition and to help them manage their lifestyle better.
Additional services include consultations with general practitioners, endocrinologists, cardiologists, podiatrists, and wound and foot care—all offered free of charge to financially disadvantaged individuals.
Following a detailed analysis of the Type 2 diabetes situation in Mauritius, DIASE observed during its prevention sessions that many diabetic patients exhibit uncontrolled blood sugar levels before, during, and after festive periods. A significant decrease in the age of newly diagnosed Type 2 diabetic patients has also been noted, with cases of young patients as young as 14 years old.

 

Accreditation Number with the National Social Inclusion Foundation: NCSRF/2017/0106


Accreditation Number with the National Social Inclusion: 14027

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President
Vashisth Balloo
Person in Charge
Nevin Poonmany
Services offered
  • Prevention of the onset of diabetes—regardless of its form or type—through early screening, awareness programs, conferences, and educational workshops.
  • Support individuals living with diabetes in improving their quality of life and preventing complications from poor disease management.
  • Offer comprehensive and free care to people with diabetes, no matter the type or form.
  • Services include consultations with general practitioners, endocrinologists, cardiologists, podiatrists, as well as foot and wound care—all provided free of charge to financially disadvantaged individuals.
History
The founder, Rani Balloo, was a nurse in a public hospital. During her specialization—offered by the government in partnership with the University of Mauritius and Middlesex University—she had to undertake a research project. She chose the topic: “Diabetes in Children.” At the time, the condition was poorly managed within the healthcare system and remained a taboo subject, even within extended families. Parents often hid the fact that their children had diabetes.
Initially, the organization supported children with Type 1 diabetes, then those with Type 2, and eventually adults. The association was officially founded in 2014, with a mission focused on prevention, early detection, and diabetes management.
Objectives
Diabetes Safeguard (DIASE) was founded in 2014 as a non-profit organization, registered under Reg No: 14027. For nearly 11 years, DIASE has been actively involved in both the medical and social fields. The organization is especially dedicated to combating diabetes in all its forms. Over the years, DIASE has directly contributed to the well-being of thousands of Mauritians.
Mission Statement:
  • To prevent the onset of diabetes—regardless of its form or type—through early screening initiatives, awareness programs, conferences, and educational workshops.
  • To support individuals living with diabetes in improving their quality of life and preventing complications due to poor disease management.
  • To offer comprehensive and free care to people living with diabetes, regardless of the type or form of the condition.
Main achievements
Since its creation in 2014, Diabetes Safeguard (DIASE) has become a key player in the fight against diabetes in Mauritius by implementing concrete and sustainable actions in both the medical and social spheres. Key achievements include:

 

  • Free, Comprehensive Care for Diabetic Patients:
DIASE has established a multidisciplinary approach offering free care, including consultations with various specialists and essential support services.

 

  • Support for Families and Caregivers:

The organization provides support to those living with or close to diabetic patients through educational and awareness programs.

 

  • Large-Scale Educational and Prevention Programs
DIASE has organized information sessions, workshops, conferences, and screening programs to prevent diabetes and encourage self-management. These initiatives have reached and educated thousands of Mauritians.

 

  • Tailored Physical Activities for Specific Groups
Physical activity sessions specifically designed for pregnant women with gestational diabetes have been implemented to improve health and prevent complications.

 

  • Alerting Authorities to National Health Concerns

DIASE has highlighted concerning trends such as the rise in Type 2 diabetes diagnoses among youth (as young as 14) and poor blood sugar management during festive periods.

 

  • Support for Vulnerable Populations
All services are offered free to individuals in financial difficulty, ensuring equitable access to healthcare.

 

  • Over a Decade of Sustainable Impact
With nearly 11 years of continuous operation, DIASE has positively impacted the lives of thousands of Mauritians every year.
Sources of funding

Diabetes Safeguard Mauritius is primarily funded through:

  • The National Social Inclusion Foundation (NSIF)
  • Companies through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects